This Tuesday we will have the opportunity to study, practice and share about The Five Awarenesses. The heart of Thay’s teaching on continuation is contained in them. They are often a part of Plum Village wedding ceremonies and a great teaching for growing understanding, inclusiveness and harmony. As Thay says, Acceptance does not mean being passive or condoning injustice. Acceptance is to calm down and see the situation clearly. By living and practicing awareness we bring peace and joy to our lives and the lives of those around us.
We are aware that all generations of our ancestors and all future generations are present in us. (bell)
We are aware of the expectations that our ancestors, our children, and their children have of us. (bell)
We are aware that our joy, peace, freedom, and harmony are the joy peace, freedom, and harmony of our ancestors, our children, and their children. (bell)
We are aware that understanding is the very foundation of love. (bell)
We are aware that blaming and arguing can never help us and only create a wider gap between us; that only understanding, trust, and love can help us change and grow. (two bells)
Thanks,
Pete
practicing mindfulness in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh